Updated Feeding Schedule — November 2026
Beginning November 1, 2026, the 29-gallon Balance Experiment transitions to a new three-day weekly feeding schedule.
The feeding days have changed to better accommodate my work schedule and allow more time to observe fish behavior during feeding.
Weekly Feeding Schedule
SUNDAY — Feeding Day
- Fish flakes
- Algae wafers
MONDAY — No Scheduled Feeding
TUESDAY — Feeding Day
- Brine shrimp
- Bloodworms
- Shrimp Cuisine
WEDNESDAY — No Scheduled Feeding
THURSDAY — Feeding Day
- Fish flakes
- Algae wafers
FRIDAY — No Scheduled Feeding
SATURDAY — No Scheduled Feeding
Feeding Frequency
- 3 scheduled feeding days per week
- 4 non-feeding days
- Food portions remain controlled
- No doubling portions to compensate for non-feeding days
Why the Schedule Changed
Previously, the aquarium was fed on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
The new schedule moves feeding to Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday.
Friday and Saturday are now consecutive non-feeding days.
This adjustment allows more time to observe the fish eating, particularly because my work schedule makes Friday feeding observations difficult.
Betta Health Consideration
The betta experienced reduced activity and weight loss following the September vacation period.
Because of this, individual targeted feeding remains an exception to the regular community feeding schedule.
If the betta requires additional nutrition, small targeted meals may be provided outside the scheduled feeding days.
The objective is to ensure that the betta receives adequate food without increasing unnecessary feeding throughout the tank.
R&D Monitoring
The new feeding schedule will be monitored alongside:
- Weekly nitrate readings
- Fish activity and body condition
- Shrimp and snail activity
- Uneaten food accumulation
- Black beard algae observations
- Overall aquarium stability
The purpose is not simply to reduce food input, but to establish a sustainable feeding routine that meets livestock needs while minimizing excess waste.
Fertilizer Schedule
Tuesday:
- NilocG Thrive S
- 4 pumps once weekly
Fertilizer dosing is separate from the livestock feeding schedule.